I wonder if DP Review is patting themselves on the back for being so smart on getting Chris and Jordan on their staff? The best duo out there to show us gear.
Hi, between Sirui and Benro, is it better to choose Sirui? Are they built well? Have you also had the chance to try the Benros in the store? Thank you! Greetings....
It's a sign of how high quality your presenting, videography, and pacing is that despite not wanting to buy a new tripod at ALL, I watched every second of this video and loved it
055 - large, 190 - mid; 290 - a smaller 190, BeFree - small/travel; XPRO - the column can be placed horizontally; 3 or 4 at the end of a product's name - number of leg sections
Tripod legs, like any structure, have resonant frequencies. I think that by using a massager with a single frequency you're basically just measuring which tripods' resonant frequencies are/aren't close to that fixed input. It doesn't tell you much about what would happen across a broader range of scenarios IMO. Also, direct vibrational inputs to the legs are fairly rare IMO. We're usually more interested in what happens in a heavy wind, for example. I guess the takeaway here is that lighter/whippier tripods are best if we want to take pictures with a personal massager strapped to your shaft?
I've got a twelve year old Gitzo 2531 and it's considerably less vibration prone than a Leofoto 284 I bought last year. In a "tap test" the Gitzo settled down in just over a second while it takes a good 3-4 seconds on the Leofoto. But of course Gitzo tripods are quite a bit more expensive, so they should be better.
I agree about Leofoto being comparable in quality to the Big Boys like Gitzo and RRS. I have 2 models and the LS-365C with LH40 ball head (No center column) is the most solid and stable tripod I’ve used in 50 years of photography….at about half the price too! Chris, it would have been interesting to have included RRS in this comparison, but I realize “time” was short…pardon the pun. 😅
Lever locks have one basic advantage over twist locks: you can tell if they're engaged at a glance, which minimizes the risk of the tripod collapsing when e.g. one of the twist locks wasn't quite secured even though you thought it was (oh, Chris mentions it at 13:52). Edit: Also, in below zero Celsius temperatures, it's easier to operate lever locks than twist locks, especially if moisture gets in and freezes on the threads.
I will say Lever locks are a bit easier to use at extreme cold temps (think thick gloves on). Living here in Alaska that is often the case for 5-6 months of the year. I would love to see you do a heavy tripod comparison (for those of us that shoot bigger systems (like large format, or medium format digital).... could look at brands like Feisol and Photoclam, as well as Manafrotto, Gitzo, etc.. I would also love to see a review comparison of some geared head options. Arca Swiss, Photoclam, Rogeti, and Manafrotto all make geared heads for us "Gear heads" in different weights and sizes.
Even without the high accuracy, incredibly scientific TSVT (Tripod Standard Vibration Testing), the Sirui seems to be the best option here, offering the most bang for the buck.
You need to test the gear as you use it. Do you need tripod for vibrator? Go for Sirui. The scientific test should include powerful fan, blowing from the same distance. The camera should be the same. Testing on different height.
I love these videos that are more of a resource to come back to and check out before making a purchase. It's rare that any one piece of gear is "the best", more about something being the best in one situation, and having some trade-offs in others. These kinds of videos are great for explaining that kind of stuff.
I've been really impressed with my Leofoto LS-365, collapses down pretty compact as it's got 5 sections but still really stable because of the 36mm upper sections, also brings the camera up to just above my eye level and I'm around 5'11. It's the only tripod I found that gave me what I wanted when I tried loads out at a photography show a couple of years ago.
@@BoyarsMedia Yes it does undoubtedly take a little longer but I dont think it's enough to put anyone off, I dont doubt that it also transmits a little more vibration through it too for having more sections. I've been really impressed with its stability though and love how much more compact it is than my old 3 section tripod
Still rollin with the Gitzo 1325 as my daily driver. I'll keep using it until it breaks. So far, it still works as well as the day I bought it. When I saw "large" tripods I thought you meant "large" tripods. I still have a Gitzo 1548 that I bought to go with a 600mm lens and Wimberley gimbal. The lens and gimbal are long gone, but I still have the tripod. Since it's big and heavy, I use it for studio work these days. The thing about good tripods is that they last forever and you can always retask them for other purposes.
You made up my mind for me. I'm 6'9. It was tall, yet came in 2nd for compactness. I shoot in the water quite often. It was stable. And you tied it up in the end with the monopod which was not mentioned earlier. Great review.
I still own some RRS products, love them, always have and always will, but Pro Media Gear makes the best large tripods. I have their TR42ML the 42mm diameter and 81inches tall monopod but with an RRS MH-01 monopod head with 80mm lever release clamp. I eventually wanted the matching tripod the TR42L I believe it is, it's also 42mm diameter legs and is about 77inches tall, it is a real beast. I've seen a grown man hang from this tripod, feet off the ground! RRS makes great stuff, but they just can't compete with PMG these days. Both made in the USA and both well made, but PMG has the tallest and widest diameter legs of any tripod or monopod. Sure they are expensive, but when you're putting $12k lenses on them, worth every penny. Unfortunately they went up in price, the tripod I have now is about $1,400 and I paid $1200 not too long ago. The monopod setup I have alone is about $850, but it's absolutely worth it if you ask me. I also highly recommend all of the Zenelli carbon fiber Gimbal Heads and carbon fiber lens feet! Also very expensive but worth every penny. Crazy to have a $2,800 tripod setup, but it does pay to buy the best once and never have to upgrade again.
@@patricksmith2553 Really Right Stuff TVC-45 has 40mm legs and goes to 85.4inches in height 5 leg sections. Weight limit 80lbs. $1555 Leofoto LM-404cl has 40mm legs and goes to 84.1 inches in height. No center column. Weight limit 88lbs $740 The LM-324cl has 32mm legs and goes to 79.5 inches in height. No center column Weight limit 55lbs I agree the ProMedia TR42L is a stronger tripod though. I did like a couple features better on the Leofoto though. The big one is on the bowl head the top of the plate having the simple bubble level offset to be able to level the bowl with any head on it. Some of LeoFoto's additions for slinging it over a shoulder and mounts to put a SurfacePro teathered to the camera mounted on the tripod are awesome too.
@@mverick160 Yeah to each their own and whatever works best for you, you know. I had bought a Leo Photo years ago and a Surui and both were not bad, but I returned the LeoPhoto right away and sold the Surui after about 6months. I learned my lesson and wasn't about to keep making the mistake of buying $500-$700 tripods over and over. I'm just glad I bought the Pro Media Gear monopod, because it was and is so awesome and it lead me to buy the matching tripod. RRS has 40mm legs now I guess, but still PMG is leading them there with 42mm diameter legs and a much higher weight for payloads. I saw a picture of a grown man hanging from the center of a PMG tripod. That guy weighed more than the payload limit by at least 50lbs and it held up. Not many tripods can support the weight of a grown man hanging from the center lol. I must admit that I do like the finish of RRS better, their carbon fiber and it's pattern seem just slightly better/cooler. The PMG might be stronger and wider in diameter but the RRS just has a little bit better manufacturing as far as finish and looks. I absolutely love my RRS MH-01 with the 80mm lever release clamp. I also have the RRS B2-FABN Micro clamp with strap lugs that attaches to the bottom of my Zenelli Carbon fiber lens foot. I have PeaKDesign anchors attached to the RRS micro clamp and I then attach my included Nikon padded long lens strap to the PD anchors. It's very secure and it does not get in the way when mounting to my RRS clamps. I have the Nikon 500mm f/4E VR FL and previously had the 400mm f/2.8E VR FL. I got the 500mm because of the weight (6.5lbs), but I wish Nikon would catch up with Sony and Canon. I do prefer the 400mm f/2.8, but it's still heavy compared to the 6.5lbs competition. I'm spoiled with the 500FL, it's so light and well balanced that it feels like nothing.
The W on the Sirui model name is for use in water. Pretty good test. On a photography forum I frequent, someone mentioned a site that test for vibrations on tripods by attaching a vibration sensor at the camera mount & they tap the legs at different points & take the readings. As always, great vid & the humor is always more than welcome.
Personally, even though I have a carbon fibre 3LT tripod, for the vast majority of my work I use my old 055 Pro aluminium tripod, which is heavier but is much more stable in my experience and whilst it is quicker to undo twist locks, I much prefer the lever lock because I know when they are locked properly. If out and about though, the vast majority of time, I won't take a tripod, I just find them too cumbersome when out all day. The exception is when I have pre-planned a shoot and know I will either be shooting long exposures or light painting and also when I am on an environmental portrait shoot, where I will set up the shot from the tripod and then once, I have captured the shot, then play around with the camera off the tripod.
I've got a Smith Victor Kenlock 2000 GLB tripod with gear-driven center post. I bought it new in the late 1970s. I'm old now, but my message is that a good tripod can be a lifetime investment. One thing I regret is not buying a good used wooden tripod back then. They were available back then in thrift stores and camera shops for a song.
These tripods are perfectly matching "Travel" category. Lots of people travel with rather heavy equipment in different weather conditions, so these are the most basic tripods for them. these tripods sits fine inside or outside backpack, weight a liitle. Large tripods starts from Gitzo Systematic 3. And what you mentioned as "travel tripod", I'd say they are more for everyday usage, when you want to cary smaller bag or backpack.
I know this video is kinda old now, but a couple of thoughts... I'd be interested to see how the Leofoto LQ-324C would stack up. Since the one tested was so light and compact, you could up it to the 32mm thick legs and have a taller tripod at similar weight to the others and no doubt even more stable than the tested tripod with the 28mm legs. It seems to be it would have been a much closer match than the shorter LQ-284C that was tested. To me the interest here is between the Sirui and Leofoto. Both seem to have some pros and cons. Having said that, in this review there is a lot of emphasis put on shooting at a standing eye level. I feel like I'm rarely shooting like that. I guess it depends on your use. But I'm either in the studio doing table top photography and often well below eye level... or I'm out doing some landscape photography and sitting down on a rock with the tripod in water getting down nice and low. Unless I'm trying to shoot over a barrier or railing next to a path or something, I rarely have a tripod set to towering heights (I'm about 6'2").
Chris, at 9:50 that's where the newer Manfrotto 055/058 comes into their own, this feature exists on them, but you hit a button on the base of the column and simply swivel the head over to 90 Degrees, no screwing required, in fact the tripod plate is just a plain screw in the top, so no fussing at the bottom, just two grub screws at the top.
I have and use the Leofoto LS-284CEX and I love working with it. In my opinion, this tripod has the best compromise between weight, stability and price. The head I use is the VH-30R and what can I say. I don't miss a ball head. The connection between the tripod's levelling unit and the VH-30R is simply unbeatable. I still have a heavy Feisol in the studio, but I don't use it when I'm on the road. It's just too big, too bulky and too heavy for that. My genre is weddings, products and landscapes/travel.
Admirable effort on the vibration test. Take the results with a grain of salt though. Vibration frequency can dramatically change the results. Each tripod will have its weak spots at specific frequencies depending on the geometry and materials. A more scientific approach would be to test across a range of frequencies and draw a "response curve" for each tripod: x axis=frequency. y=response amplitude.
I've drifted away from the big photo tripod manufacturers to the iFootage Gazelle. I'm 6'3" and can comfortably use it at face height without a center column. And leveling it for panos is faster than any tripod in the world.
I have the Ifootage TC9 Gazelle. The largest one. What I was upset is the leveling glass for the ball head is mounted on the flat you mount the head to. So you can't see it. I contacted Ifootage about it to see if on future bowl mounts they'd put it hanging off the side so we could level. They said I could always remove my ballhead. And a lot of ballheads had a bubble level to level off of. Then why do they even put one on it. I like the quick disconnect of the ball. But to be honest I've never used it. Take the camera off the head and leave the head on the tripod. I went to the Leofoto LM-404CL It has the bubble off to the side so you can still use it when your ball head is mounted and allen bolted to it so it can't move. I'm 6'3" and the LeoFoto goes taller then I need. Leg sections are larger then the Ifootage TC9 and some cool options for a carrying strap.
All the tripod manufactures out there and my two favorite tripods are a Leofoto LS-285CEX and a Sirui 2004XL. Still kicking myself for not springing for the 2204XL when I could have! You guys do great work. And, stop hurting yourself Chris.
I bought the Sirui 2204 years ago and its pretty solid.... did have the K20 head but upgraded to a Flexshooter Mini this year which works well for a gimbal head as well as a ballhead type experience with a levelling head. Size wise the inverting is key... this can fit in my carry-on. The one thing I will note... is that when it was compared to a more expensive tripod (RRS) someone quite rightly pointed out that the point where the head meets the legs is not as thick and stable. I have also seen a picture where that part snapped.... Then again I think it was 1/3 the price. It is certainly the best value....
Wouldn't logic suggest using a high velocity fan over a 'personal massager' to test stability considering that wind and not earthquakes influence accuracy the most?
One thing I think of great importance in choosing a tripod, especially for travel, wildlife and landscape photography is how easily can you repair it in the field? My Bogen/Manfrotto tripod and monopod that I bought in the 80's are great in that regard. I've been using them and abusing them for over 45 years and both still work as good as new. The only change I made was to replace the stock head on the Bogen 3021 with a ball head with an Arca Swiss compatible camera mount.
I've always felt the lever lock was more durable because it can be tightened as the pieces age. My limited experience with twist locks has shown me that the parts break/fall out and I cannot for the life of me get them back in how they should be. Hopefully that's not the case with a $500 tripod, but the levers have never failed on me, so I'll go with the "don't fix what isn't broken" approach.
Got the Sirui ST-125 with the ST-10 head.ö for travel and that is really great, relatively light and stable. Also Sirui adopted the triangulare center column. And has spiked feet in it and move out with a twist on the feed
One thing is very important for me: It should be easy to attach a strap, because I do not use backpacks and a tripod bag adds additional weight when walking around. At the moment I have a Manfrotto and it has two points to attach a strap. It seems attaching a strap to a Gitzo is much more complicated. I love that the Gitzo only has three sections, because that means you safe a lot of time each time you tighten or untighten the legs.
Actually by having more legs you are de-coupling the members. Each leg can then in theory absorb some of the ground movement or shaking. There are many factors like design, however the basic concept is similar to how bridges and also sidewalks dare built. Every so many feet they are physically separated from each other. Buildings also can share some of this with floating floors, etc. Sound studios decouple the walls so the vibration (sound vibrates) is interrupted. You said you subjectively like 3 legs but this was a real world test- despite your comment to the contrary. More legs, in these conditions at least and with these tripods proved to be more stable. 3 legs are more convenient but that is about it. Strength, Rigidity and Vibration are 3 different things. A steel pole would be very strong but it would also translate a lot of vibration. I don't know much about these things but it would seem like the best bang for the buck would be to grab the Leofoto (even pre-owned for
Nice review, Thank you....Maybe do a video reviewing Leofoto Ranger line. Presently using the Manfrotto and I rarely ever used the center column. Thanks
I would still call these "lightweight" tripods to be honest. Medium weight starts with the Gitzo series 3 and its peers IMO. My backpacking tripod is an old Gitzo 1348 (series 3 mountaineer), but my daily drivers are a Gitzo 5543 XLS (4 part legs, goes to 78") and a Sachtler Flowtech 75. I'd call all of those "medium weight". "Heavy" tripods have 100 or 150 mm bowls.
I was searching for tripods for dual use with my R6mkII and RF 100-500mm and stumbled, Hudson Henry’s channel for the first time, and really liked the combination he uses: Leofoto LM-324CL Summit Series Extra Long 81” Version ($455) Leofoto LB-75S Leveling Base ($108) Manfrotto MVH500AH Fluid Video Head with Flat Base ($128) Kirk Quick Release Bridge System for Manfrotto MVH 500 Fluid Video Head ($145) - Converts Fluid Head to Arca Swiss. The entire rig is under 7 pounds and fits into the supplied carry bag for the tripod with the fluid head attached. It is an amazing combination with the tripod and the Kirk replacement bridge based on suggestions Hunter made to Leophoto and Kirk.
I would really love to see a comparison of tripods specifically for tall people. Maybe do it by price range or something to organize it. A bang for the buck challenge type thing.
Could you cover the best video lenses for Fuji, third and first party? The sensor is amazing but I wanna pick up some lenses that are better suited for video than the few I have.
just got the Sirui W 2204 used and it's the best i've ever had. the only issue is the weight with a leveling adpator and manfrotto fluid head - total close to 7# - ??? will look for another head maybe a mono pod two way - any suggestions welcome.
I'm certainly glad to have found this even though it's been a couple of years... I'm thankful that I mostly have to cope with wind instead of such, uhm, "tremors", in the wilds of the northern Plains/Rockies! lol Seriously, though, this was a great comparison demonstrating the pros and cons of each line. I'm leaning towards a taller Leofoto minus the center column but was glad to see the general comparisons between these manufacturers.
I’ve recently become interested in professional chess.. and now I can’t unsee the resemblance between Chris and grand master chess player Hikaru Nakamura 🙈
Hello Chris, I have a Sirui N-2204, the one not water proof but, I’m ok with it all the same. I have a question about the ballhead. I bought it with a Sirui G-20kx; would there be much difference from the one you used in the test, the K-20? When I put my Sony GM 100-400 it tends to go down a bit and I don’t know whether to make the upgrade or stay with my G-20. Thank you, Fabrizio
While funny I think using a vibrator to measure stability is giving the opposite result for the data you're looking for. A stiffer tripod is going to transmit the vibration better, while a more flexible one will absorb it. So, the "worse" performance is actually the better tripod. I think a better test to give a more realistic scenario would be to get some wind, like a leaf blower pointed at the camera.
I wanted the Gitzo to win, being the Rolls Royce of tripod manufacturers and it’s price point. But as usual for many of its products, it doesn’t do as well as the competition in the absorption of vibrations (the main raison d'etre of a tripod!) not quite as flexible as the Leofoto and Sirui tripods here either. I think it’s a toss up between those two for the victory stakes here. If on bang for your buck…it’s the Sirui.
I hope the test is more for entertainment. I think it shows Gitzo could be stiffer, translating the vibrations more. A better test would be a windy day with a very long lens.
@@niccollsvideo sure, but rubber feets will be okeish too for rocks. But you on on the grass, fallen leaves, the spikes are essential, even nice heavy tripod will woble without it. ua-cam.com/video/poG__6af9ok/v-deo.html
@@ThisMoose they do have a optional center column.. They also produce models with.. I'm just saying cause my really right stuff 34L was crap, and literally exploded in use in normal conditions, was only my 4th time using it, I almost lost my camera lens and bag with additional lenses...( no I don't abuse my gear, I maintain everything in Prestine condition) Everything they showed cost more for tripod only than my rt-90c, with center column and 56mm ball head.... Its not always about cost for quality.. I love sirui, I own their traveler 5c and used to own their n-2204sk with k30 ball head ( good setup) .. Great tripod but the n-2204sk wouldn't hold a candle to even the rt-80c from innorel for way lower price with ball head... Even their model with the center column ( rt-7*). Point is I've used all 3 of the innorel setups, have a rt-90c and a rt-80c on the way... I paid basically $2000 for my really right stuff and ball head, and for 1/4 the price I feel I got a stronger, beefier tripod that has and will last longer than my 34L ever did.. At the time when I searched, leofoto didn't have a version to the same specs as the Rt-90c. I search for over a week, comparing everything for every brand I could get through Amazon, leofoto was one of them. And they do have good options as shown. But they didn't have a comparable model at that time.... ( they may now but not a year ago.)
Well that was unexpected, lol. I think wind and shutter shock are your #1 sources of tripod leg quivering...ahem. The other thing not mentioned here, is the center column hook, to hang a weight from i.e.: your camera bag. It adds stability to a lot of tripods in wind. I use mine, as I take 8-30 sec shots of skylines regularly.
On a tripod vibrations come from the head not the bottom, it's very different. Vibration source is mirror slab for reflex cameras and wind on longer lenses. weakest point are: lens collars and or misfittet plates heads central columns About 10 years ago I had a Gitzo head with a hollow shaft and spirit level within it. The shaft was weakend and I had terrible vibrations. Meanwhile Gitzo changed it with a massive shaft and I changed also the head, and guess what, no more vibrations
You should try out the whole Leofoto line. I went to them and haven't been upset about anything. Their 324 and 325 cex with the ability to level the camera with a bowl is awesome.
I use a Novoflex TrioPod system and I love it. It is a modular system that is extremely flexible without making compromises in quality. I'm wondering why we don't see this more often in videos from north america.
I prefer fliplocks for the simple reason that my wrists start complaining if I repeatedly use twistlocks. I have an iFootage TC6, and it has some great features that these tripods lack, in particular a levelling bowl, and feet that can be changed from spikes to pads without swapping anything out. But I somehow never realised until this video that it's possible to use only the short section of the centre column in order to shoot low to the ground without inverting it. I feel silly that this hadn't occurred to me, but it's really useful info, so thanks :)
I worked in camera stores for 27 years and sold a lot of tripod brands. I personally leaned toward the metal legs and not carbon fiber for one reason, the metal legs seemed to have less vibration and vibration can blur many a photo.
The thing I like about the Gitzo is the massive and lethal spike that can penetrate the thickest woodland floor thatch, muddy ground or beach. They make the Gitzo really steady in the softest of surfaces
@@johnsmith1474 Woodland thatch does, the tripod rocks around on the springy woodland floor and those long spikes are definite advantage when surf is trying to undermine your tripod. This information has been gleaned by a lot of experience
I wonder if DP Review is patting themselves on the back for being so smart on getting Chris and Jordan on their staff? The best duo out there to show us gear.
Honestly the best move ever. Whoever had that Idea is definitely touching themselves rn
@@oetproductions8101 Yeah, it also meant that they took a significant amount of the Camera Store TV audience with them
Definitely!
I have the Sirui that you guys tested, and I love it. Especially when it is -30 degrees C. It is a beast, and it is very dependable. I love it.
Hi, between Sirui and Benro, is it better to choose Sirui? Are they built well? Have you also had the chance to try the Benros in the store? Thank you! Greetings....
It's a sign of how high quality your presenting, videography, and pacing is that despite not wanting to buy a new tripod at ALL, I watched every second of this video and loved it
Thanks! Really appreciate hearing that.
A Manfrotto tripod explainer would be great to see. I try to understand their lineup and it makes no sense so please do a video on that!
055 - large, 190 - mid; 290 - a smaller 190, BeFree - small/travel;
XPRO - the column can be placed horizontally;
3 or 4 at the end of a product's name - number of leg sections
A manfrotto tripod/monopod video for sure!
Yesssss !!!!!
Tripod legs, like any structure, have resonant frequencies. I think that by using a massager with a single frequency you're basically just measuring which tripods' resonant frequencies are/aren't close to that fixed input. It doesn't tell you much about what would happen across a broader range of scenarios IMO.
Also, direct vibrational inputs to the legs are fairly rare IMO. We're usually more interested in what happens in a heavy wind, for example.
I guess the takeaway here is that lighter/whippier tripods are best if we want to take pictures with a personal massager strapped to your shaft?
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Exactly, a leaf blower at a set distance would be much better
The Gitzo by far in the old days, was the best tripod to get. Now I believe Leofoto is coming up the ranks to compete.
I've got a twelve year old Gitzo 2531 and it's considerably less vibration prone than a Leofoto 284 I bought last year. In a "tap test" the Gitzo settled down in just over a second while it takes a good 3-4 seconds on the Leofoto. But of course Gitzo tripods are quite a bit more expensive, so they should be better.
@@anthonymrbs my trusty old Gitzo does the job too. But I bought it used from a friend for $275. It took my now famous sun eclipse shots.
I have leofoto from the beginning
I agree about Leofoto being comparable in quality to the Big Boys like Gitzo and RRS. I have 2 models and the LS-365C with LH40 ball head (No center column) is the most solid and stable tripod I’ve used in 50 years of photography….at about half the price too! Chris, it would have been interesting to have included RRS in this comparison, but I realize “time” was short…pardon the pun. 😅
Lever locks have one basic advantage over twist locks: you can tell if they're engaged at a glance, which minimizes the risk of the tripod collapsing when e.g. one of the twist locks wasn't quite secured even though you thought it was (oh, Chris mentions it at 13:52). Edit: Also, in below zero Celsius temperatures, it's easier to operate lever locks than twist locks, especially if moisture gets in and freezes on the threads.
You talk out your ass, a real user just becomes accustomed to locking the knobs every time, like you put a car in park.
I will pretty much pause whatever I'm doing when I get a notification about a new video from you guys
I will say Lever locks are a bit easier to use at extreme cold temps (think thick gloves on). Living here in Alaska that is often the case for 5-6 months of the year.
I would love to see you do a heavy tripod comparison (for those of us that shoot bigger systems (like large format, or medium format digital).... could look at brands like Feisol and Photoclam, as well as Manafrotto, Gitzo, etc.. I would also love to see a review comparison of some geared head options. Arca Swiss, Photoclam, Rogeti, and Manafrotto all make geared heads for us "Gear heads" in different weights and sizes.
Even without the high accuracy, incredibly scientific TSVT (Tripod Standard Vibration Testing), the Sirui seems to be the best option here, offering the most bang for the buck.
You need to test the gear as you use it. Do you need tripod for vibrator? Go for Sirui.
The scientific test should include powerful fan, blowing from the same distance. The camera should be the same. Testing on different height.
I'd love to see in the future how the Benro tripods compare with Sirui!
They skipped classic SLIK 8XX series, and you ask for Benro?
I love these videos that are more of a resource to come back to and check out before making a purchase.
It's rare that any one piece of gear is "the best", more about something being the best in one situation, and having some trade-offs in others.
These kinds of videos are great for explaining that kind of stuff.
I've been really impressed with my Leofoto LS-365, collapses down pretty compact as it's got 5 sections but still really stable because of the 36mm upper sections, also brings the camera up to just above my eye level and I'm around 5'11.
It's the only tripod I found that gave me what I wanted when I tried loads out at a photography show a couple of years ago.
Try the CEX version.
5 sections might take longer to set up or break down. It's good to hear the legs don't taper too much.
@@BoyarsMedia Yes it does undoubtedly take a little longer but I dont think it's enough to put anyone off, I dont doubt that it also transmits a little more vibration through it too for having more sections.
I've been really impressed with its stability though and love how much more compact it is than my old 3 section tripod
Still rollin with the Gitzo 1325 as my daily driver. I'll keep using it until it breaks. So far, it still works as well as the day I bought it. When I saw "large" tripods I thought you meant "large" tripods. I still have a Gitzo 1548 that I bought to go with a 600mm lens and Wimberley gimbal. The lens and gimbal are long gone, but I still have the tripod. Since it's big and heavy, I use it for studio work these days. The thing about good tripods is that they last forever and you can always retask them for other purposes.
You made up my mind for me. I'm 6'9. It was tall, yet came in 2nd for compactness. I shoot in the water quite often. It was stable. And you tied it up in the end with the monopod which was not mentioned earlier. Great review.
Asking for a friend: what was the optimal setting for the tripod testing appliance?
Would have loved to see you add RRS (Really Right Stuff) to this comparison mix!
Choosing tripod for you vibrator?
Leofoto LM-404CL or the 364CL is what I went with. I liked the features more on the LeoFoto.
I still own some RRS products, love them, always have and always will, but Pro Media Gear makes the best large tripods. I have their TR42ML the 42mm diameter and 81inches tall monopod but with an RRS MH-01 monopod head with 80mm lever release clamp. I eventually wanted the matching tripod the TR42L I believe it is, it's also 42mm diameter legs and is about 77inches tall, it is a real beast. I've seen a grown man hang from this tripod, feet off the ground! RRS makes great stuff, but they just can't compete with PMG these days. Both made in the USA and both well made, but PMG has the tallest and widest diameter legs of any tripod or monopod. Sure they are expensive, but when you're putting $12k lenses on them, worth every penny. Unfortunately they went up in price, the tripod I have now is about $1,400 and I paid $1200 not too long ago. The monopod setup I have alone is about $850, but it's absolutely worth it if you ask me. I also highly recommend all of the Zenelli carbon fiber Gimbal Heads and carbon fiber lens feet! Also very expensive but worth every penny. Crazy to have a $2,800 tripod setup, but it does pay to buy the best once and never have to upgrade again.
@@patricksmith2553
Really Right Stuff TVC-45 has 40mm legs and goes to 85.4inches in height 5 leg sections. Weight limit 80lbs. $1555
Leofoto LM-404cl has 40mm legs and goes to 84.1 inches in height. No center column. Weight limit 88lbs $740
The LM-324cl has 32mm legs and goes to 79.5 inches in height. No center column Weight limit 55lbs
I agree the ProMedia TR42L is a stronger tripod though. I did like a couple features better on the Leofoto though. The big one is on the bowl head the top of the plate having the simple bubble level offset to be able to level the bowl with any head on it.
Some of LeoFoto's additions for slinging it over a shoulder and mounts to put a SurfacePro teathered to the camera mounted on the tripod are awesome too.
@@mverick160 Yeah to each their own and whatever works best for you, you know. I had bought a Leo Photo years ago and a Surui and both were not bad, but I returned the LeoPhoto right away and sold the Surui after about 6months. I learned my lesson and wasn't about to keep making the mistake of buying $500-$700 tripods over and over. I'm just glad I bought the Pro Media Gear monopod, because it was and is so awesome and it lead me to buy the matching tripod. RRS has 40mm legs now I guess, but still PMG is leading them there with 42mm diameter legs and a much higher weight for payloads. I saw a picture of a grown man hanging from the center of a PMG tripod. That guy weighed more than the payload limit by at least 50lbs and it held up. Not many tripods can support the weight of a grown man hanging from the center lol. I must admit that I do like the finish of RRS better, their carbon fiber and it's pattern seem just slightly better/cooler. The PMG might be stronger and wider in diameter but the RRS just has a little bit better manufacturing as far as finish and looks. I absolutely love my RRS MH-01 with the 80mm lever release clamp. I also have the RRS B2-FABN Micro clamp with strap lugs that attaches to the bottom of my Zenelli Carbon fiber lens foot. I have PeaKDesign anchors attached to the RRS micro clamp and I then attach my included Nikon padded long lens strap to the PD anchors. It's very secure and it does not get in the way when mounting to my RRS clamps. I have the Nikon 500mm f/4E VR FL and previously had the 400mm f/2.8E VR FL. I got the 500mm because of the weight (6.5lbs), but I wish Nikon would catch up with Sony and Canon. I do prefer the 400mm f/2.8, but it's still heavy compared to the 6.5lbs competition. I'm spoiled with the 500FL, it's so light and well balanced that it feels like nothing.
I really dig these review roundups (and your other videos too, of course)
The W on the Sirui model name is for use in water. Pretty good test. On a photography forum I frequent, someone mentioned a site that test for vibrations on tripods by attaching a vibration sensor at the camera mount & they tap the legs at different points & take the readings. As always, great vid & the humor is always more than welcome.
Finally great video!
Definitely would love a video on Manfrotto tripods ! Hope you guys make one.
Personally, even though I have a carbon fibre 3LT tripod, for the vast majority of my work I use my old 055 Pro aluminium tripod, which is heavier but is much more stable in my experience and whilst it is quicker to undo twist locks, I much prefer the lever lock because I know when they are locked properly.
If out and about though, the vast majority of time, I won't take a tripod, I just find them too cumbersome when out all day. The exception is when I have pre-planned a shoot and know I will either be shooting long exposures or light painting and also when I am on an environmental portrait shoot, where I will set up the shot from the tripod and then once, I have captured the shot, then play around with the camera off the tripod.
I've got a Smith Victor Kenlock 2000 GLB tripod with gear-driven center post. I bought it new in the late 1970s. I'm old now, but my message is that a good tripod can be a lifetime investment. One thing I regret is not buying a good used wooden tripod back then. They were available back then in thrift stores and camera shops for a song.
These tripods are perfectly matching "Travel" category. Lots of people travel with rather heavy equipment in different weather conditions, so these are the most basic tripods for them. these tripods sits fine inside or outside backpack, weight a liitle. Large tripods starts from Gitzo Systematic 3. And what you mentioned as "travel tripod", I'd say they are more for everyday usage, when you want to cary smaller bag or backpack.
Very thoroughly structured and great to watch
I am loving my Sirui weatherproof tripod. I have Manfrotto gear, but the Sirui is my favorite now. Cheers
That surui ballhead is really nice. Smooth but not to loose action :)
For anyone who too often fails to fully tighten at least one twistlock, the Sirui N-2204 is more attractive.
I know this video is kinda old now, but a couple of thoughts... I'd be interested to see how the Leofoto LQ-324C would stack up. Since the one tested was so light and compact, you could up it to the 32mm thick legs and have a taller tripod at similar weight to the others and no doubt even more stable than the tested tripod with the 28mm legs. It seems to be it would have been a much closer match than the shorter LQ-284C that was tested. To me the interest here is between the Sirui and Leofoto. Both seem to have some pros and cons.
Having said that, in this review there is a lot of emphasis put on shooting at a standing eye level. I feel like I'm rarely shooting like that. I guess it depends on your use. But I'm either in the studio doing table top photography and often well below eye level... or I'm out doing some landscape photography and sitting down on a rock with the tripod in water getting down nice and low. Unless I'm trying to shoot over a barrier or railing next to a path or something, I rarely have a tripod set to towering heights (I'm about 6'2").
Chris, at 9:50 that's where the newer Manfrotto 055/058 comes into their own, this feature exists on them, but you hit a button on the base of the column and simply swivel the head over to 90 Degrees, no screwing required, in fact the tripod plate is just a plain screw in the top, so no fussing at the bottom, just two grub screws at the top.
I have and use the Leofoto LS-284CEX and I love working with it. In my opinion, this tripod has the best compromise between weight, stability and price. The head I use is the VH-30R and what can I say. I don't miss a ball head. The connection between the tripod's levelling unit and the VH-30R is simply unbeatable. I still have a heavy Feisol in the studio, but I don't use it when I'm on the road. It's just too big, too bulky and too heavy for that. My genre is weddings, products and landscapes/travel.
Admirable effort on the vibration test. Take the results with a grain of salt though. Vibration frequency can dramatically change the results. Each tripod will have its weak spots at specific frequencies depending on the geometry and materials. A more scientific approach would be to test across a range of frequencies and draw a "response curve" for each tripod: x axis=frequency. y=response amplitude.
Very true!
I've drifted away from the big photo tripod manufacturers to the iFootage Gazelle. I'm 6'3" and can comfortably use it at face height without a center column. And leveling it for panos is faster than any tripod in the world.
I have the Ifootage TC9 Gazelle. The largest one. What I was upset is the leveling glass for the ball head is mounted on the flat you mount the head to. So you can't see it. I contacted Ifootage about it to see if on future bowl mounts they'd put it hanging off the side so we could level. They said I could always remove my ballhead. And a lot of ballheads had a bubble level to level off of. Then why do they even put one on it. I like the quick disconnect of the ball. But to be honest I've never used it. Take the camera off the head and leave the head on the tripod.
I went to the Leofoto LM-404CL It has the bubble off to the side so you can still use it when your ball head is mounted and allen bolted to it so it can't move.
I'm 6'3" and the LeoFoto goes taller then I need. Leg sections are larger then the Ifootage TC9 and some cool options for a carrying strap.
Excellent video, Sirui always struck me as the best for the money but their line and model consistency is all over the place.
All the tripod manufactures out there and my two favorite tripods are a Leofoto LS-285CEX and a Sirui 2004XL. Still kicking myself for not springing for the 2204XL when I could have! You guys do great work. And, stop hurting yourself Chris.
I bought the Sirui 2204 years ago and its pretty solid.... did have the K20 head but upgraded to a Flexshooter Mini this year which works well for a gimbal head as well as a ballhead type experience with a levelling head. Size wise the inverting is key... this can fit in my carry-on. The one thing I will note... is that when it was compared to a more expensive tripod (RRS) someone quite rightly pointed out that the point where the head meets the legs is not as thick and stable. I have also seen a picture where that part snapped.... Then again I think it was 1/3 the price. It is certainly the best value....
Wouldn't logic suggest using a high velocity fan over a 'personal massager' to test stability considering that wind and not earthquakes influence accuracy the most?
But that's less fun 🤣
Sometimes things 'feel' scientific if it's easier to measure. I think a better test would be to tap the legs with a stick.
One thing I think of great importance in choosing a tripod, especially for travel, wildlife and landscape photography is how easily can you repair it in the field? My Bogen/Manfrotto tripod and monopod that I bought in the 80's are great in that regard. I've been using them and abusing them for over 45 years and both still work as good as new. The only change I made was to replace the stock head on the Bogen 3021 with a ball head with an Arca Swiss compatible camera mount.
I've always felt the lever lock was more durable because it can be tightened as the pieces age. My limited experience with twist locks has shown me that the parts break/fall out and I cannot for the life of me get them back in how they should be. Hopefully that's not the case with a $500 tripod, but the levers have never failed on me, so I'll go with the "don't fix what isn't broken" approach.
All the pros use twist locks.
@@gosman949 let's not tell the thousands of professional photographers who don't that they're not "pros" then. 🤦
@@markkempton4579 well let’s limit my comment to landscape photographers.
I very much like to see an episode to demonstrate the Gitzo line. Thanks.
"Stop hurting yourself!!!"
Brilliant employment of non standard testing gear…
it was super-stupid (as not scientific)
@@pavelsuprun8113 it worked 😂
I've got the Sirui T-2004XL and it's the best gdamn tripod I've ever seen anywhere. It's fantastic!
Got the Sirui ST-125 with the ST-10 head.ö for travel and that is really great, relatively light and stable. Also Sirui adopted the triangulare center column. And has spiked feet in it and move out with a twist on the feed
Next video will be Jordan testing “first aid kits” when shooting with someone like “I need a bandaid” Chris…
One thing is very important for me: It should be easy to attach a strap, because I do not use backpacks and a tripod bag adds additional weight when walking around. At the moment I have a Manfrotto and it has two points to attach a strap. It seems attaching a strap to a Gitzo is much more complicated.
I love that the Gitzo only has three sections, because that means you safe a lot of time each time you tighten or untighten the legs.
Actually by having more legs you are de-coupling the members. Each leg can then in theory absorb some of the ground movement or shaking. There are many factors like design, however the basic concept is similar to how bridges and also sidewalks dare built. Every so many feet they are physically separated from each other. Buildings also can share some of this with floating floors, etc. Sound studios decouple the walls so the vibration (sound vibrates) is interrupted.
You said you subjectively like 3 legs but this was a real world test- despite your comment to the contrary. More legs, in these conditions at least and with these tripods proved to be more stable. 3 legs are more convenient but that is about it. Strength, Rigidity and Vibration are 3 different things. A steel pole would be very strong but it would also translate a lot of vibration.
I don't know much about these things but it would seem like the best bang for the buck would be to grab the Leofoto (even pre-owned for
The Leofoto looks awesome!
Nice review, Thank you....Maybe do a video reviewing Leofoto Ranger line. Presently using the Manfrotto and I rarely ever used the center column. Thanks
I would still call these "lightweight" tripods to be honest. Medium weight starts with the Gitzo series 3 and its peers IMO.
My backpacking tripod is an old Gitzo 1348 (series 3 mountaineer), but my daily drivers are a Gitzo 5543 XLS (4 part legs, goes to 78") and a Sachtler Flowtech 75. I'd call all of those "medium weight".
"Heavy" tripods have 100 or 150 mm bowls.
Great detailed review! I've tried quite a few tripods over the years and have consolidated to a Leo and the Peak Design TT
Why is the plant blurred at @15:56 Haha 😂
I was listening to this in background until the "leg quivering device" was brought up.
"The leg-quivering, toe-curling..." wait, nvm
The only one I would trust with an A1 and the 200-600 would be the Gitzo unless you have the RRS or PMG ones.
I was searching for tripods for dual use with my R6mkII and RF 100-500mm and stumbled, Hudson Henry’s channel for the first time, and really liked the combination he uses:
Leofoto LM-324CL Summit Series Extra Long 81” Version ($455)
Leofoto LB-75S Leveling Base ($108)
Manfrotto MVH500AH Fluid Video Head with Flat Base ($128)
Kirk Quick Release Bridge System for Manfrotto MVH 500 Fluid Video Head ($145) - Converts Fluid Head to Arca Swiss.
The entire rig is under 7 pounds and fits into the supplied carry bag for the tripod with the fluid head attached. It is an amazing combination with the tripod and the Kirk replacement bridge based on suggestions Hunter made to Leophoto and Kirk.
I would really love to see a comparison of tripods specifically for tall people. Maybe do it by price range or something to organize it. A bang for the buck challenge type thing.
What about those Pistol Grip looking heads. What are those good for?
Congrats for pretty thorough review
Could you cover the best video lenses for Fuji, third and first party? The sensor is amazing but I wanna pick up some lenses that are better suited for video than the few I have.
just got the Sirui W 2204 used and it's the best i've ever had. the only issue is the weight with a leveling adpator and manfrotto fluid head - total close to 7# - ??? will look for another head maybe a mono pod two way - any suggestions welcome.
One thing for sure, Chris always have me craving for more leg spreaders paired with vibration test apparatus
Just got a beefy Leofoto 365c and that LH-40 ballhead for $280ish on sale, it's such a great value for a RRS knockoff. Very solid and well designed
I'm pretty impressed with the head! It's solid.
I'm certainly glad to have found this even though it's been a couple of years... I'm thankful that I mostly have to cope with wind instead of such, uhm, "tremors", in the wilds of the northern Plains/Rockies! lol Seriously, though, this was a great comparison demonstrating the pros and cons of each line. I'm leaning towards a taller Leofoto minus the center column but was glad to see the general comparisons between these manufacturers.
Kindly do a complete line up of these tripods. All of them.. 👍🏻
Availability of parts and good service are important.
I’ve recently become interested in professional chess.. and now I can’t unsee the resemblance between Chris and grand master chess player Hikaru Nakamura 🙈
I promise you it's merely superficial. I'm not very good at chess.
@@niccollsvideo haha. I saw his latest thumbnail thinking it was a funny camera review thumbnail 😅
@@niccollsvideo on the other hand you look a lot better than Nakamura. In fact I don’t see much resemblance beyond modest hight and short dark beard.
What about Vanguard? 🤔
Hello Chris, I have a Sirui N-2204, the one not water proof but, I’m ok with it all the same.
I have a question about the ballhead. I bought it with a Sirui G-20kx; would there be much difference from the one you used in the test, the K-20?
When I put my Sony GM 100-400 it tends to go down a bit and I don’t know whether to make the upgrade or stay with my G-20.
Thank you,
Fabrizio
thicker tubings (legs) is better for for longer focal length now put on a 600mm lens and see which one is more stable
While funny I think using a vibrator to measure stability is giving the opposite result for the data you're looking for. A stiffer tripod is going to transmit the vibration better, while a more flexible one will absorb it. So, the "worse" performance is actually the better tripod. I think a better test to give a more realistic scenario would be to get some wind, like a leaf blower pointed at the camera.
I wanted the Gitzo to win, being the Rolls Royce of tripod manufacturers and it’s price point. But as usual for many of its products, it doesn’t do as well as the competition in the absorption of vibrations (the main raison d'etre of a tripod!) not quite as flexible as the Leofoto and Sirui tripods here either. I think it’s a toss up between those two for the victory stakes here. If on bang for your buck…it’s the Sirui.
SLIK 833,834 will be just perfect, for less money. This vibration test is super-stupid.
I hope the test is more for entertainment. I think it shows Gitzo could be stiffer, translating the vibrations more. A better test would be a windy day with a very long lens.
11:50 Spikes are used not on rocky terrain, but on grass. Cris simply never used tripod for landscape photography.
I use them for rocky terrain all the time. Also river rocks, and wet wood. Works fine for me.
@@niccollsvideo sure, but rubber feets will be okeish too for rocks. But you on on the grass, fallen leaves, the spikes are essential, even nice heavy tripod will woble without it. ua-cam.com/video/poG__6af9ok/v-deo.html
My Manfrotto is OK but the head is no good for a big lens. Is it possible to change the head only?
Why no benro trypod?
I'd be curious how the Ifootage line of tripods compare after the high review of their monopod.
Good review, but I'd appreciate a review of the Leofoto Ranger CEX leveling series of tripods, thankyou.
You need to include innorel in your tripod videos.. Especially the rt-80c and rt-90c
Innorel is just rebranded leofoto. Also these wouldn't be appropriate for this comparison because they have no center column.
@@ThisMoose they do have a optional center column.. They also produce models with.. I'm just saying cause my really right stuff 34L was crap, and literally exploded in use in normal conditions, was only my 4th time using it, I almost lost my camera lens and bag with additional lenses...( no I don't abuse my gear, I maintain everything in Prestine condition) Everything they showed cost more for tripod only than my rt-90c, with center column and 56mm ball head....
Its not always about cost for quality.. I love sirui, I own their traveler 5c and used to own their n-2204sk with k30 ball head ( good setup) .. Great tripod but the n-2204sk wouldn't hold a candle to even the rt-80c from innorel for way lower price with ball head... Even their model with the center column ( rt-7*). Point is I've used all 3 of the innorel setups, have a rt-90c and a rt-80c on the way... I paid basically $2000 for my really right stuff and ball head, and for 1/4 the price I feel I got a stronger, beefier tripod that has and will last longer than my 34L ever did..
At the time when I searched, leofoto didn't have a version to the same specs as the Rt-90c. I search for over a week, comparing everything for every brand I could get through Amazon, leofoto was one of them. And they do have good options as shown. But they didn't have a comparable model at that time.... ( they may now but not a year ago.)
The main takeaway i got from this video is that '20 years ago' is still in the 2000s.. 🥲
I just realized that my old original Flash Gordon movie poster has turned 40 this year.
I gave you a thumbs up. I really wanted to give you a thumbs down...
Well that was unexpected, lol. I think wind and shutter shock are your #1 sources of tripod leg quivering...ahem. The other thing not mentioned here, is the center column hook, to hang a weight from i.e.: your camera bag. It adds stability to a lot of tripods in wind. I use mine, as I take 8-30 sec shots of skylines regularly.
Lovely intro/outro music!
Great review as usual!
What was the brand of the tripod vibrator 😇
Great comparison. Would be interested to see a review on the Robus 5570 and their related center column.
what's your height Chris? and the height of your eye relative to the ground (min 5 , gitzo with head and camera)? thanks
Interesting but did not compared load capacity??? or what´s the deal with load capacity??
Would love to see you doing an updated review and introduce a Kingjoy tripod because it will wipe the floor with all of them, it’s that good.
Why author points to plastic at Manfrotto? Sirui is the same plastic I think?
I use Sony a7iii, please suggest a multi purpose tripod for both photography & videography
On a tripod vibrations come from the head not the bottom, it's very different.
Vibration source is mirror slab for reflex cameras and wind on longer lenses.
weakest point are:
lens collars and or misfittet plates
heads
central columns
About 10 years ago I had a Gitzo head with a hollow shaft and spirit level within it. The shaft was weakend and I had terrible vibrations. Meanwhile Gitzo changed it with a massive shaft and I changed also the head, and guess what, no more vibrations
Hey Chris , is your foot feeling better?
I got sirui mono pod pan tilt head on velbon twist lock tripod great for travel.
You should try out the whole Leofoto line. I went to them and haven't been upset about anything. Their 324 and 325 cex with the ability to level the camera with a bowl is awesome.
I use a Novoflex TrioPod system and I love it. It is a modular system that is extremely flexible without making compromises in quality. I'm wondering why we don't see this more often in videos from north america.
What about a Rollei C6i Carbon? I guess that brand is not really a thing in the US market, but they seem great value for money in Europe.
Too bad you did not test the FLM tripods and the distributor is in Canada Eh. GREAT TRIPODS!
Why no Novoflex?
I prefer fliplocks for the simple reason that my wrists start complaining if I repeatedly use twistlocks. I have an iFootage TC6, and it has some great features that these tripods lack, in particular a levelling bowl, and feet that can be changed from spikes to pads without swapping anything out. But I somehow never realised until this video that it's possible to use only the short section of the centre column in order to shoot low to the ground without inverting it. I feel silly that this hadn't occurred to me, but it's really useful info, so thanks :)
So, did you manage to deduct cost for that tripod vibration test device from income wrt tax?
I worked in camera stores for 27 years and sold a lot of tripod brands. I personally leaned toward the metal legs and not carbon fiber for one reason, the metal legs seemed to have less vibration and vibration can blur many a photo.
Those tripods look extremely satisfied.
The thing I like about the Gitzo is the massive and lethal spike that can penetrate the thickest woodland floor thatch, muddy ground or beach. They make the Gitzo really steady in the softest of surfaces
All that is needed is a pointed tip. OBVIOUSLY mud or beach needs no such thing.
@@johnsmith1474 Woodland thatch does, the tripod rocks around on the springy woodland floor and those long spikes are definite advantage when surf is trying to undermine your tripod. This information has been gleaned by a lot of experience